Why does your teen say you don’t understand them? Because they think you’ve always been the person they see in front of them. Grown up, take-charge, educated, responsible.
They have no clue about what you’ve gone through to become the person you are today. All too often you share it through a lecture. “When I was your age… At your age you should be able to…” Ugh. Eye-rolling and tuning out.
Your struggles show them that everyone goes through difficult times, learning and transforming. If you could do it, so can they.
You can inspire them by being vulnerable and sharing your experiences and the feelings that came with them.
It gives them hope they can get through these baffling years, and that comforts your teen.
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Fern Weis is a certified life coach who learned that caring and good intentions are not enough in parenting. In fact, they are often the problem! Fern supports parents of teens and young adults who are going through difficult situations, including addiction recovery. She helps parents release guilt, end enabling and confidently prepare their children to thrive through life's challenges. Her articles are featured in Thrive Global, Medium, Motherly, The Teen Mentor, and Bergen County Moms.
Learn more about coaching and classes at www.fernweis.com. And then download your free guide, "Five Powerful Steps to Get Your Teen to Talk." For information on Family Recovery programs, visit www.familyrecoverypartners.com.